What if the very thing you’re insecure about is the reason you’re meant to win? In this episode of Talks With Tez, we dive into Brandy’s memoir Phases and uncover the raw truth behind being underestimated, misunderstood, and still rising anyway. From childhood insecurities to industry pressure, this conversation breaks down why being the “outsider” might actually be your greatest advantage. If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t fit the mold—this one’s for you.

Why do people seem perfect at first… then completely different later? In this episode of Talks With Tez, we break down the real reason—romanticizing potential. From miscommunication to projection, and even the deeper psychology behind why we see what we want instead of what is, this conversation will shift how you approach dating, connections, and self-awareness. If you’ve ever felt “misled” in a relationship, this might be the truth you’ve been avoiding.

So sit back, relax, and join the conversation... because it's happening!

Sponsored by: "CNSG" CNSGApparel.com

This isn’t a full episode...it’s a check-in.

Before tomorrow’s drop, take a moment to get real with yourself. What are you avoiding? What patterns keep repeating? And if nothing changes… are you okay with where you’re headed?

We’re not taking a break: we’re applying pressure. New episode drops tomorrow.

This episode is sponsored by CNSG Apparel — Cool Nerd, Sensitive Gangster.

Strength with sensitivity. Intellect with edge.

Tap in: CNSGapparel.com

Today, Tez dives into how narcissistic traits show up in everyday conversations—especially when someone dominates the space and leaves others feeling unheard. With humor and real-life examples, he breaks down the difference between acknowledging vs engaging, and why that distinction matters more than people realize.

From one-sided phone calls to subtle communication red flags, this episode helps listeners recognize when they’re not being fully seen and how to start reclaiming their voice.

🎧 Tune in, reflect, and join the conversation.

Growth is supposed to be celebrated… so why do some people start acting strange when you begin leveling up?

In this episode of Talks With Tez, Cortez dives into the psychology behind why personal growth can make others uncomfortable. Whether it’s improving your health, chasing your dreams, or simply evolving emotionally, your progress can unintentionally hold up a mirror to the people around you.

Sometimes that inspiration turns into support… and sometimes it turns into subtle resistance.

Through humor, real-life observations, and a little bit of tough truth, Tez explores why people may try to “humble” you when you start believing in yourself—and why their reaction often has more to do with their own inner conflicts than anything you’ve done.

If you’ve ever felt like people got distant, critical, or awkward when you started improving your life… this conversation might explain why.

And more importantly, why you should keep growing anyway.

This Valentine’s Day episode breaks down what the holiday really means ...beyond flowers and Instagram posts. After donating 60 meals and learning a hard lesson about preparation and service, Tez explores whether Valentine’s Day is romantic, cliché, or just emotional pressure disguised as love. Are proposals on February 14th cute or convenient? Is the holiday meaningful or commercial? And who is Valentine’s Day actually for? This episode brings humor, reflection, and real perspective on love in all its forms.

Success changes more than your bank account… it changes your family dynamics.

In this episode of Talks With Tez, we dive into the uncomfortable question: When you make it, do you owe your family financially? Using the GloRilla family controversy as a starting point, we explore real listener stories, boundaries, guilt, entitlement, and what giving back really means.

No sides. No fluff. Just honest conversation.

This episode originally aired earlier, but its message remains deeply relevant.

In Simply Me, Cortez shares a personal reflection on coming out...not just verbally, but physically and emotionally...stepping fully into who he is without apology. This episode explores identity, self-acceptance, fear, freedom, and the internal shift that happens when you stop hiding and start honoring your truth.

More than a coming-out story, this is a conversation about embodiment, authenticity, and choosing peace over performance...told honestly, at Cortez’s own pace.